Froome is poised to take victory in Paris after entering the final stage with a lead of over five minutes - and traditionally will not be challenged as the riders end the three week race on the Champs Elysées.

The 28-year-old's achievements will provide Great Britain with a second successive Tour winner, following Sir Bradley Wiggins' triumps just 12 months ago - which Hoy has credited as "momumental".

"Just a few years ago we did not have anyone who could podium, but now we have two cyclists who can win the Tour in consecutive years," Hoy said. "It is a phenomenal achievement and what Chris has done is phenomenal."

"It is a huge achievement and I almost feel sorry for Chris because people are almost getting blase about it.

"People think it is another British winner so that is what we should expect. But if you take a step back and get some perspective, you can see what a monumental achievement it is for him to have done this."

Wiggins was forced to pull out of this year's race, which celebrates its 100th running, because of injury - and Hoy admitted he would have loved to have seen the Team Sky team-mates battle it out over the 3,404km.

"I think it would have been lovely to have seen Bradley racing this year and it would have been fantastic to see both him and Chris competing," Hoy added. "Last year was Bradley's year and this year is Chris's."